New opportunities for local nonprofits to collaborate, grow, and make a lasting impact across the Blackhawk Region.
At United Way Blackhawk Region, we believe stronger communities are built when everyone has the opportunity to be part of the solution.
That's why we're opening our doors wider than ever before.
United Way Blackhawk Region (UWBR) is excited to announce that our 2027–2029 Community Investment Grant Cycle will be open to all eligible nonprofit organizations serving Rock County, Wisconsin, and Northern Winnebago County, Illinois.
Approved by our Board of Directors, this expanded opportunity invites both current United Way funded partners and nonprofits new to our organization to apply for community investment funding.
It's another meaningful step in our commitment to bringing people, organizations, and resources together so all our neighbors can thrive.
Opening Doors to Greater Community Impact
Our commitment to opening doors goes beyond our new home at 101 N. Parker Drive in Janesville. It's about creating opportunities for more voices, fresh ideas, and new partnerships to strengthen the communities we serve.
"Throughout my years in education, I learned that communities grow strongest when we widen the circle and bring more people to the table," said Dennis Pauli, Interim President and CEO of United Way Blackhawk Region. "Opening our doors to every nonprofit serving this region reflects our promise to mobilize communities to action so all can thrive. More voices, more ideas, and more partners mean a stronger Blackhawk Region for everyone."
By expanding eligibility, we're creating more opportunities to connect with organizations doing important work throughout our region.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
The 2027–2029 Community Investment Grant Cycle is open to registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations serving residents of:
- Rock County, Wisconsin
- Northern Winnebago County, Illinois
Both existing United Way funded partners and organizations that have never received funding from UWBR are encouraged to apply.
Eligible programs must align with one of United Way Blackhawk Region's four community impact pillars.
Four Pillars of Community Impact
Our community investments focus on four key areas that help individuals, families, and communities build stronger futures.
Financial Security
Helping individuals and families build financial stability, increase income, and plan for a more secure future.
Healthy Community
Expanding access to healthcare, nutritious food, and essential services that support healthier lives.
Youth Opportunity
Creating opportunities for children and young people to learn, grow, succeed, and reach their full potential.
Community Resiliency
Connecting neighbors to essential resources and services when they need them most, including through 2-1-1, so our communities can respond, recover, and grow stronger together.
These priorities guide how United Way works alongside nonprofit partners to address local needs and create meaningful, lasting change.
Important Dates for the 2027–2029 Grant Cycle
Organizations interested in applying should mark their calendars for the following dates:
|
Date |
Milestone |
|---|---|
|
November 2026 |
Virtual applicant information sessions |
|
Early December 2026 |
Application details and save-the-date information distributed |
|
January 4, 2027 |
Grant applications open |
|
February 12, 2027 |
Application deadline |
|
April 19–30, 2027 |
Program presentations to community volunteer review panels |
|
July 1, 2027 |
New community investment funding cycle begins |
Applications will be submitted online through United Way Blackhawk Region's e-CImpact grant portal. Additional application details will be shared with interested organizations.
A Community-Driven Investment Process
At United Way Blackhawk Region, community investment decisions are guided by the needs of the people and communities we serve.
Community volunteers play an important role in reviewing grant applications and participating in program presentations. Their involvement helps ensure the process reflects local perspectives, priorities, and opportunities.
We remain committed to a thoughtful, fair, and transparent process that supports meaningful community impact.
"Our current funded partners strengthen families, open doors, and move our community forward every day," Pauli said. "They remain an essential part of how we respond to our region's needs. Widening the circle builds on that foundation and invites even more organizations to walk through the door and join us in this work."
Interested in Applying? Stay Connected!
Whether your organization is a longtime United Way partner or exploring funding opportunities with us for the first time, we encourage you to learn more about the 2027–2029 Community Investment Grant Cycle.
Applications open January 4, 2027.
Nonprofit organizations interested in receiving application updates, information session details, and important grant cycle announcements can contact:
Michelle Adkins
Director of Community Impact & Engagement
United Way Blackhawk Region
madkins@unitedwaybr.org
608.314.8426
Together, we can open more doors, strengthen partnerships, and create opportunities for every neighbor to thrive.
United Is The Way.